Resting just
south of the Loop and along Lake Michigan, the South Loop offers
affordable housing in an enviable location, with the Museum Campus and
Millennium Park bordering the eastern side. The newly reborn
neighborhood has seen an explosion of growth in the past decade, with
everything from trendy loft-style buildings and rehabs to high-rises and
single family homes springing up throughout the area. Professionals,
students, and young families are drawn to the area, both for its
affordability and the cultural life that has evolved with the
neighborhood.
Because both the
School of the Art Institute and Columbia College call the South Loop
home, quite a few young artists and students have contributed to the
growth and created an eclectic community, reflected in the area's shops,
restaurants, and nightlife. Funky jewelry boutiques and antique stores
sit tucked along State Street and smaller side streets branching off.
And,unique book stores, such as Prairie Avenue Bookstore and Rain Dogs
Books and Caf??, tempt readers of all ages.
Dining and
nightlife options are just as diverse neighborhood favorites Gioco and
Opera offer tempting Italian and contemporary Asian, respectively. A
slew of family-owned delis and coffee shops boast a faithful
neighborhood following, all known for their quality fare and cozy
settings. The post-dinner crowd often heads to hear live music at small,
intimate venues such at the Hot House, where internationally-acclaimed
musicians perform everything from jazz to beat box. Grace O'Malley's and
the newer, trendy Wabash Tap promise cold drinks, a warm atmosphere,
and a friendly place to gather with friends.
If you're looking
for cultural and athletic activities, you need look no further. With
the Museum Campus, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and Art Institute just to
the north, cultural options abound. The lakefront and 12thStreet Beach
are a short walk away, as are Millennium Park and Grant Park full of
events year 'round. Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears, sits on
the eastern border. And, the El Red Line stops at State Street, ready to
whisk residents south toward Chinatown and Comiskey Park, or up north
to Wrigley Field, Lakeview or Lincoln Park. The Blue, Green, and Orange
Lines also pass through the neighborhood, as do a number of CTA busses,
making commuting to other parts of the city a snap.
